The Department of Homeland Security on Wednesday rescinded a policy requiring top-level review of large contracts, rolling back a measure implemented under former Secretary Kristi Noem.
In a statement to The Hill, DHS said Secretary Markwayne Mullin eliminated the rule mandating that contracts over $100,000 receive personal approval from the secretary.
The department said the change is intended to streamline operations and give agencies greater flexibility in managing procurement.
Mullin had criticized the requirement at his Senate confirmation hearing, calling it "micromanaging" and pledging to eliminate it.
The policy, introduced under Noem, centralized oversight of billions of dollars in spending but drew complaints from within the department that it slowed decision-making and hindered day-to-day operations.
The move comes after months of controversy that led to Noem's removal from the post.
Her tenure was marked by internal disputes over enforcement policies and management decisions, as well as backlash over the federal government's handling of fatal shootings involving U.S. citizens in Minneapolis earlier this year.
In January, federal immigration agents killed Renee Good and Alex Pretti in separate shootings, sparking protests and ongoing legal battles over access to evidence and accountability.
Critics said Noem's response to those incidents, along with broader leadership concerns, eroded confidence in the department and contributed to her ouster.
James Morley III ✉
James Morley III is a writer with more than two decades of experience in entertainment, travel, technology, and science and nature.
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